The evolution of international trade and the growing need to decentralize logistics operations in Chile have generated a paradigm shift in the management of imports.
In this context, the northern macro-zone, and in particular the port of Iquique, has acquired a strategic role as a gateway for goods coming from Asia, Europe, and North America.
The consolidation of Iquique as a logistics hub responds to multiple factors: its geographic location, the existence of the Free Trade Zone (ZOFRI), land connectivity with neighboring countries, and the growing regional demand for consumer goods, machinery, and industrial supplies.
This development has allowed the city to become not only a national reception point, but also a redistribution platform for Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay.
Thus, imports to northern Chile today present a growing diversification of origins.
Asia, particularly China, South Korea, and Vietnam, continues to lead in cargo volume, with shipments of technology, auto parts, household appliances, and textiles.
Europe, meanwhile, maintains a sustained presence, with exports of industrial equipment, cosmetics, and precision spare parts.
Likewise, North America, with an emphasis on the United States and Mexico, has increased its participation, especially in processed foods, pharmaceutical products, and specialized tools.
This multiplicity of origins, along with the pressure to shorten logistics times and improve traceability, requires operators with technical capacity, local presence, and experience in complex international flows.
International Line’s commitment
With more than 26 years of experience, International Line has consolidated its operation in the north through an established office in Iquique, which allows it to offer a comprehensive service with direct attention, faster response times, and a deep understanding of the regional logistics ecosystem.
“Our local team —composed of professionals with extensive experience in foreign trade, customs regulations, land transportation, and multimodal coordination— provides customized solutions to importers from multiple sectors, including mining, automotive, wholesale retail, and agribusiness,” says Gina Boudon, Commercial Director of International Line.
Indeed, operational proximity, together with the support of its offices in Santiago and Lima, makes it possible to offer a truly transversal solution: from coordination at the port of origin to final delivery at destination, including advice on ZOFRI, proactive tracking, and cost optimization.
In this way, in a commercial space where efficiency and resilience are essential conditions to compete, logistics decentralization represents a real opportunity for companies operating in Chile.
Iquique, in that sense, emerges as a solid alternative to the traditional ports in the center of the country, allowing risk diversification, congestion reduction, and access to new markets.
“From International Line, we reaffirm our commitment to this strategic zone, convinced that territorial presence, specialized talent, and international experience are key to boosting logistics development in the north and strengthening the competitiveness of our clients,” concludes Gina Boudon.
